The US government will reduce airline traffic by 10% at 40 major airports starting Friday if the ongoing federal shutdown remains unresolved, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced. The move aims to relieve growing stress among air traffic controllers who have been working without pay for more than a month.
Officials stated that the reductions will begin with a 4% cut on Friday, gradually reaching 10% next week. The measure will apply to cargo, private, and passenger flights, with international routes initially exempt. The specific airports affected will be announced Thursday, but the list is expected to include major hubs in New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Dallas.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said the decision is based on safety concerns as increasing fatigue among controllers threatens operational stability. He emphasized that while current air travel remains safe, the system is “under pressure” and that early intervention is essential.
The shutdown, now in its 36th day, has left thousands of controllers unpaid and staffing levels severely strained. Duffy said the FAA is offering retention bonuses to veteran controllers and accelerating recruitment at its academy to address shortages. The traffic cuts are expected to worsen delays and congestion across major airports ahead of the busy holiday travel season.
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